What role did religion play in the arts in Islamic civilizations? What artistic cultural influence have Islamic civilizations had on our own culture today?

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Religion played a significant role in the arts of Islamic civilizations. Islamic art is deeply rooted in the religion of Islam, as it primarily abstains from depicting human figures in order to avoid idolatry. Instead, Islamic art focuses on calligraphy, geometric patterns, and floral designs, which are often found in architecture, ceramics, textiles, and manuscripts.

The integration of Islamic religious beliefs into art allowed for the expression of spiritual ideas and devotion. The intricate geometric patterns found in Islamic architecture, such as in mosques and palaces, symbolize the infinite nature of God and are believed to enhance the spiritual experience of the viewers. Islamic calligraphy, particularly of verses from the Quran, is considered a highly respected art form and serves as a means of connecting with the divine.

In terms of cultural influence, Islamic civilizations have had a profound impact on our own culture today. Islamic art and architecture have influenced various art movements across Europe and Asia. From the 8th to the 15th century, during the Islamic Golden Age, Islamic scholars preserved and translated classical Greek and Roman texts into Arabic, thereby contributing to the preservation of knowledge that later influenced the Renaissance in Europe.

Islamic civilizations also made advancements in fields such as mathematics, astronomy, medicine, and philosophy, which influenced and contributed to the development of scientific and intellectual progress worldwide. The architectural styles inspired by Islamic designs, such as arches, domes, and intricate tilework, can be seen in various modern buildings globally.

Moreover, the Arabesque patterns in Islamic art have influenced Western decorative arts and patterns, as seen in textiles, furniture, and ceramics. The art of Islamic bookmaking and manuscript illumination has also influenced the art of book design in Europe.

In summary, religion played a central role in the arts of Islamic civilizations, and their artistic cultural influence can be observed in the realms of design, architecture, decorative arts, and intellectual contributions that have shaped our culture today.